Shotgun Metagenome Sequencing and Analysis Test
Short Name: Shotgun Metagenomics
Also known as: Shotgun Metagenomics, Metagenomic Sequencing, Whole Genome Metagenomics
Shotgun Metagenome Sequencing and Analysis Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹30,000. Uses Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing, Bioinformatics Analysis on Extracted DNA samples. Results in Reports are delivered within 8 weeks from sample receipt.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr SULOCHANA HEMCHANDRA HOLLA
Consultant Medical Geneticist · Reg: 8532
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of shotgun metagenome sequencing and analysis is to provide an unbiased, comprehensive assessment of the microbial community in a sample. It is used to identify all microorganisms present, including rare and novel species, characterize their functional potential, and understand the impact of environmental or clinical factors on microbial ecology. This test aids in diagnosing complex infections, monitoring antimicrobial resistance, and advancing microbiome research.
- Test Code
- 6333
- CPT Code
- N/A
- ICD Code
- N/A
- Price
- ₹30,000
- Sample Type
- Extracted DNA
- Result Time
- Reports are delivered within 8 weeks from sample receipt.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing, Bioinformatics Analysis
Sample Collection
Ensure the extracted DNA sample is of high quality (A260/280 ratio 1.8-2.0) and sufficient quantity (≥100 ng). Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. If sample is from a clinical specimen, follow standard collection protocols.
Method: Extracted DNA sample submission
Laboratory Analysis
The sample (extracted DNA) should be transported on dry ice or at -20°C to maintain stability. Label the tube clearly with patient ID and sample type.
Report Delivery
The sample will be processed for library preparation and sequencing. Results will be available in 8 weeks. Our team will contact you for any additional information if required.
Timeline: Reports are delivered within 8 weeks from sample receipt.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of shotgun metagenome sequencing and analysis is to provide an unbiased, comprehensive assessment of the microbial community in a sample. It is used to identify all microorganisms present, including rare and novel species, characterize their functional potential, and understand the impact of environmental or clinical factors on microbial ecology. This test aids in diagnosing complex infections, monitoring antimicrobial resistance, and advancing microbiome research.
How to Prepare
- Use sterile DNA LoBind tubes
- Provide at least 100 ng of DNA in a volume of 10-50 µL
- Ship on dry ice or with ice packs to maintain -20°C
- Include a completed requisition form with patient details
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr SULOCHANA HEMCHANDRA HOLLA — MBBS, MD (Medical Genetics) · Reg. No. 8532
"Shotgun metagenomics provides an unbiased view of the entire microbial community, enabling detection of pathogens, commensals, and functional genes. This test is particularly valuable for complex infections, microbiome research, and antimicrobial resistance surveillance."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- DNA quantity less than 50 ng
- DNA degraded (fragment size < 1 kb)
- Sample contaminated with excessive host DNA
- Improper labeling or documentation
Understanding Your Results
May indicate infection; correlate with clinical symptoms and other tests
Normal microbiome composition; may vary by body site
Potential for resistance; guide antimicrobial therapy
May be associated with dysbiosis or antibiotic use
Potential new species; further investigation may be needed
Consult your physician if you have symptoms of infection, are undergoing microbiome-related therapy, or require interpretation of metagenomic results in a clinical context.
Limitations
- ⚠Requires high-quality extracted DNA; degraded DNA may yield poor results
- ⚠Bioinformatics analysis depends on reference databases; novel organisms may be missed
- ⚠Quantitative accuracy may be affected by genome size and copy number variations
- ⚠Not a substitute for culture-based methods in all cases
- ⚠Results may not distinguish between live and dead organisms
Risks & Considerations
- ●No physical risks as the test is performed on extracted DNA
- ●Possible inconclusive results due to low microbial load or contamination
Interfering Factors
- ●Contamination during sample collection or DNA extraction
- ●Low DNA quantity or quality
- ●Host DNA contamination reducing microbial signal
- ●PCR inhibitors in the sample
- ●Incomplete reference databases for novel species
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Shotgun Metagenome Sequencing and Analysis | 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing | Targeted PCR Panels | Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Shotgun Metagenome Sequencing and Analysis | Targets only the 16S rRNA gene, providing genus-level identification, while shotgun metagenomics sequences all DNA, offering species-level and functional information. | Detects specific pathogens, whereas shotgun metagenomics is unbiased and can identify unexpected organisms. | WGS is used for isolated organisms, while shotgun metagenomics analyzes mixed communities directly from samples. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is shotgun metagenome sequencing?
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We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.
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